DETROIT – The state is continuing to use all possible resources in its fight against the opioid epidemic by directly adding the Michigan Automated Prescription System into the electronic health records and pharmacy dispensation systems of hospitals, physician groups and pharmacies across the state.

Lt. Gov. Brian Calley was joined by leaders from Michigan’s health community today at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit to announce that the state, thanks to efficiencies in the implementation of the new MAPS system and additional federal grants, will fund the MAPS full integration.

“Integrating MAPS into the regular operations of prescribers and dispensers makes the system even easier to use and enhances patient protections,” Lt. Gov. Brian Calley said. “This resource will help practitioners make better decisions on prescribing to prevent opioid abuse and save the lives of Michiganders.”

On April 4, 2017, the Dept. of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) launched the new MAPS that uses Appriss Health’s PMP AWARxE, putting Michigan at the forefront of prescription drug monitoring technology.

Full integration with MAPS helps prescribers and dispensers protect patients from prescription drug abuse by providing:

A seamless, single click connection into the new system’s platform where users access one system and avoid multiple logins.

A merging of users’ clinical workflow utilizing Appriss’s NarxCare, a robust analytics tool and care management program that automatically analyzes MAPS data and a patient’s health history, and provides an interactive visualization of usage patterns to help identify potential risk factors.

A more efficient process that saves users valuable time and resources.

“This integration will allow our physicians and those across Michigan to better protect and serve patients needing care,” said Henry Ford Health System President and CEO Wright L. Lassiter, III. “We are proud to partner with the state and add this cutting-edge platform into the clinical workflow of our six-hospital system.”

Following a $2.47 million appropriation from the state legislature to replace and enhance MAPS in 2016, LARA began implementing the new system. A $2.02 million appropriation was later granted for ongoing maintenance and support of the enhanced MAPS. The efficient six-month implementation resulted in $1.8 million in available appropriated funds. The available funds, combined with a $373,000 federal grant from the U.S. Dept. of Justice will allow the state to financially support the full integration of MAPS into Michigan health systems, physician groups and pharmacies that apply.

“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with the state and the Michigan medical community to help health providers make better informed decisions for early intervention and improved outcomes,” said Appriss Health CEO Rob Cohen. “Wide adoption of prescription drug monitoring information into daily clinical workflow can effectively identify potential problems with prescription drug addiction.”

In addition to the new MAPS platform, the Snyder Administration has recently made more great strides in the fight against the opioid epidemic. In May, Gov. Snyder authorized an order allowing pharmacists to dispense naloxone to eligible individuals, a fast-acting medication that can save lives by reversing opioid overdoses. The administration, along with a group of bipartisan legislators, has also unveiled a comprehensive legislative strategy to tackle opioid abuse.

To apply for integration and for additional information, visit LARA’s Bureau of Professional Licensing at www.michigan.gov/bpl and click on the MAPS resource page.